Texas Introduces Poker Bill

Is Texas Finally set for a Poker Turnaround?

Many non poker players think that with the most popular poker game being named after the Lone Star State (Texas Holdem) that everything would be pretty much free and easy in Texas. This is not the case as Texas has some of the strictest laws in the US when it comes to playing poker, however this may be about to change. At present there is only one casino in Texas and many residents get their poker action in neighboring states, which can be a pretty long drive for some. There's been a bill presented by State Representative Ryan Guillen in an attempt to loosen things up by allowing social games, and although in it's infancy could lead to a further bill regarding Online Poker in Texas. The bill in itself is simple and it's all about opening up and legalizing poker clubs with three rules that would have to be adhered to. Only members are allowed in these clubs, winnings from poker games played in the club are the only financial gains a person may make and no-one has an advantage over another player apart from their poker skills. Should the bill make it through to the Senate and be approved by at least two thirds then it would take effect as of September 1st. This is the second poker bill that has been presented in the last few months and the previous bill is an attempt to legalize and regulate poker under the watch of the Texas Lottery Commission. Neither bill mentions online poker which is a surprise however many observers believe that it won't be long before that happens too.

Online Poker in Texas

At present there is no law either for or against online poker in the state of Texas and no-one has ever been prosecuted for it so there is no precedence set. There are many Texans that enjoy poker online and there are many online poker rooms that welcome them with Bovada and Betonline Poker being two of the best. With hopefully, the loosening of the poker laws in general in Texas and the fact that other states are realizing that there is tax revenue to be had by regulating online poker maybe Texas will be next to join the growing list of states that have either legalized it or are at least thinking about it.